Stichting Bouwresearch (SBR), established in 1959, was a Dutch knowledge institute dedicated to advancing construction and building installations.

Its primary mission was to stimulate and coordinate research into new construction methods, thereby enhancing building practices in the Netherlands.

Development and Evolution:

• Foundation and Early Years: SBR was founded to address the post-World War II reconstruction needs, focusing on providing the construction industry with essential knowledge about new building materials and techniques. The first chairman was former minister Herman Witte.
• Publications and Standards: SBR was renowned for its publications on various construction-related topics, including equipment management, cost control, financing, and building security. Notably, it developed guidelines for vibration standards in buildings, which became a reference point for professionals dealing with vibrations caused by traffic, construction activities, or heavy machinery.
• Transition to SBRCURnet: In 2013, SBR merged with CURnet to form SBRCURnet, continuing its role as a knowledge partner in the construction sector. The organization collaborated with various committees to develop and disseminate new construction knowledge, offering products like the SBR Reference Details and CUR Recommendations.

Conclusion of Activities:

Due to the discontinuation of funding, SBRCURnet ceased its operations as an independent entity on December 31, 2017. Subsequently, its activities were divided: the groundwork, road, and hydraulic engineering tasks were taken over by CROW, while the building environment-related activities were assumed by ISSO, the knowledge institute for building and installation technology.

Throughout its existence, Stichting Bouwresearch played a pivotal role in enhancing the Dutch construction industry’s knowledge base, promoting innovation, and establishing standards that have had a lasting impact on building practices in the Netherlands.